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Alagar Koil (21 km)
Alagar Koil is located at 21 km north east of Madurai. This temple dedicated to Vishnu is at the foot of the Alagar Hills.
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| The story goes that Vishnu came down to this place from
Vaikunta - his abode in Heaven - to give away Meenakshi in marriage to
Sundareswarar. This journey is also celebrated as a part of the Chithirai festival of Meenakshi Temple.
In this temple he is seen in various postures sitting, standing, reclining
one over the other. God Kallalagar is brought down into Vaigai river every
Chithirai festival via Alagar Koil road. |
| Alagar Koil was even maintained
by the late Pandyas. Here you may see some Sadhus (Swamiyars), or homeless, casteless holy man
passing, mischievous monkeys among the families that bring their small children to have their heads
shaved, coated in cooling sandalwood paste, and blessed. |
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